New Writer: JG

Here are two pieces from my friend JG. Please enjoy and fill free to send me works to post at jessy@jessicashamburger.com


"Balloon"

A balloon filled with helium has formed inside me,
Pressing against my lungs,
I slowly inhale – but cannot catch my breath.
Panting,
Gasping,
Choking,
Retching,
My body trembles as tears escape my eyes.
I struggle to suppress this all-too-familiar parasite,
While my worries echo loudly – a song on repeat,
Once again I ask myself,
Will I ever be free of internal oppression?


"The Baltimore I Love"

The sun slowly fades over the harbor—another busy day in Charm City has ended.

The industrious concrete jungle with its imperfections, pollution, and herds of people is now engulfed by the shadows of night.

Gone is the sight of trash that floats in murky water behind a vacant pier. Explicit graffiti has transformed into a beautiful dark silhouette.

Gone are the sounds of drills and jack hammers which woke me before my alarm sounded. The once noisy and crowded streets are but a memory.

Above me, the dark sky is filled with glowing beams from street lights and towering buildings. Their reflections dance across the water in a repeated rhythm—today it is slow and gentle.

In quiet reflection, I walk the short distance to Federal Hill.

As I climb the steep steps, the anxiety of my day slowly begins to dissipate. Reaching my destination, I feel a soft breeze brush across my face—I close my eyes as it carries away my worries one by one.

Standing there, I feel like I am on top of the world.

I follow the path to the well-loved spot which overlooks my city. The concrete jungle of the day has transformed into a beautiful festival of lights from buildings rich in history and culture.

I take a seat on a bench and glance at the older woman sitting beside me. She wipes away a tear and then smiles. Softly she says, “This is the Baltimore I love.”